John C. Reilly, Tom Wilkinson and more in talks for KONG: SKULL ISLAND

With Legendary Pictures and Universal Studios still rounding out the cast for Kong: Skull Island, following the departure of J.K. Simmons and Michael Keaton, Deadline reports they’ve zeroed in on their potential replacements. Samuel L. Jackson is said to be in early talks for the role that Simmons previously vacated with John C. Reilly at the top of the wishlist for Keaton’s replacement. In addition, the outlet notes that Tom Wilkinson has also been offered a lead role in the film.

The cast for the film currently includes Tom Hiddleston, along with Short Term 12 star Brie Larson and Straight Outta Compton‘s Corey Hawkins.

Set for release on March 10, 2017, Kong: Skull Island aims to fully immerse audiences in the mysterious and dangerous home of the king of the apes as a team of explorers ventures deep inside the treacherous, primordial island. Legendary’s story honors the foundations of existing King Kong lore, but places it in an entirely new, distinct timeline. Previously, Simmons revealed a surprise setting for the film, saying it would take place in Detroit in 1971; however, given the title of the movie, it’s a safe bet that the jungles of King Kong’s homeland will be the primary setting.

The Kings of Summer‘s Jordan Vogt-Roberts will direct the film from a script by John Gatins and Max Borenstein. Thomas Tull (Godzilla, The Dark Knight, Pacific Rim) and Jon Jashni (Godzilla, Warcraft) will produce and Alex Garcia (Godzilla) will executive produce. The film will be released in 3D and IMAX 3D by Universal Pictures.